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Work plays a central role in many men’s lives and can be a major contributor to mental health. The current study aim was to examine the prevalence and nature of Canadian men’s mental health challenges at work, including diverse indicators of mental health and workplace characteristics. Participants (N = 451) were men (M = 49.97 years; SD = 14.99) employed in British Columbia, Canada, who were recruited via a market research online panel. Questionnaires were used to collect men’s mental health data (e.g. depression, loneliness), work-related health (e.g. burnout, bullying), and workplace performance (e.g. presentism, absenteeism). Findings revealed high rates of hazardous drinking (36%), depression (22%), suicidal/self-injury ideation (18%), and anxiety (14%). Many participants reported that they frequently experienced occupational burnout, and 18% reported that personal problems significantly impaired their work. Of concern, approximately 53% indicated that they keep feelings to themselves and 45% reported that they would prefer not to talk about their problems. Important factors related to mental health symptoms were identified (e.g. age, distress concealment, male-dominated workplace). These findings highlight the need for policy makers and employers to take immediate action to address men’s mental health challenges by developing initiatives that promote men’s mental health in the workplace.

The writing instruction preparation problem is complex and composed of a series of mutually reinforcing issues that are rarely ameliorated in teacher education programs (TEPs). Preservice teachers (PSTs) must critically examine their own writing experiences and instruction; however, such opportunities are not typically present in TEPs. This narrative inquiry describes the experiences of one PST, Millie, over the course of several semesters, as she participated in various experiences with writing, to investigate the development of her writing teacher persona. Millie shared her 'stories to live by' as a college writing student, college writing tutor, and a student teacher. Millie's stories reflect her evolving understanding of writing pedagogy as a result of her experiences, as well as the tensions she experienced in enacting and developing her writing teacher persona. Implications for storytelling as critical reflection within TEPs, as well as writing teacher development, are provided.

ABSTRACT Mental health interventions can help mitigate the unique challenges that individuals in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) face as they navigate these disciplines. We developed the “Mental Health and Wellness: Our Community and our Identity in STEM” workshop, which emphasizes leveraging our STEM community and promoting self-compassion, to foster a conversation among members of the STEM community on how to support mental health and wellness. This interactive workshop begins with a short lecture to define mental health and wellness and introduce evidence-based methods to increase self-compassion. Participants, who are often from diverse backgrounds and various career stages, then explore case studies that highlight experiences related to mental health across STEM career stages. Pre- and post-assessments of workshop participants suggest that participants had positive shifts in their ability to show compassion toward themselves as well as an increased comfort in discussing mental health within their STEM community. This workshop not only provided participants with practical tools and insights but also cultivated a supportive environment, underscoring the importance of mental health awareness and collective well-being within STEM fields. In this paper, we share tips on how this workshop was executed and lessons we have learned from our years of sharing similar workshops in the broader STEM community. We hope this paper serves as a valuable guide for potential facilitators to initiate conversations about mental health and wellness in their respective STEM spaces.

This article presents the position of the Society of Metabolic Health Practitioners (SMHP) regarding therapeutic carbohydrate reduction (TCR) nutrition interventions for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). A modified Delphi methodology was used to arrive at a consensus consisting of several focus groups, multiple rounds, and an anonymous survey. The field of endocrinology has seen many new advances for the treatment of T1DM including hybrid closed-loop insulin delivery systems and continuous glucose monitors for better glycaemic control, monoclonal antibodies to delay the onset of disease and increased access to paediatric endocrinologists, among many other noteworthy achievements. Despite these advancements, standard of care approaches to T1DM result in higher than acceptable morbidity and mortality, with a high prevalence of microvascular and macrovascular complications. Insulin resistance in type 1 diabetes is an independent risk factor for adverse outcomes even in well controlled type 1 diabetes. In 2021, only 21% of adults with T1DM in the United States achieved the American Diabetes Association’s (ADA’s) target haemoglobin A1C goal of 7.0%, while data in the paediatric and adolescent population have demonstrated worse glycaemic control. Supported by observational and interventional evidence, the SMHP advocates for the reevaluation of the prevailing nutritional therapy for T1DM with more broad consideration for TCR. The SMHP recommends open access and clinical support for TCR nutrition interventions for individuals with T1DM of all ages and calls upon the medical community to help foster more attention and research on TCR for T1DM.

Understanding the zoonotic risks posed by bat coronaviruses (CoVs) is critical for pandemic preparedness. Herein, we generated recombinant vesicular stomatitis viruses (rVSVs) bearing spikes from divergent bat CoVs to investigate their cell entry mechanisms. Unexpectedly, the successful recovery of rVSVs bearing the spike from SHC014-CoV, a SARS-like bat CoV, was associated with the acquisition of a novel substitution in the S2 fusion peptide-proximal region (FPPR). This substitution enhanced viral entry in both VSV and coronavirus contexts by increasing the availability of the spike receptor-binding domain to recognize its cellular receptor, ACE2. A second substitution in the S1 N-terminal domain, uncovered through the rescue and serial passage of a virus bearing the FPPR substitution, further enhanced spike:ACE2 interaction and viral entry. Our findings identify genetic pathways for adaptation by bat CoVs during spillover and host-to-host transmission, fitness trade-offs inherent to these pathways, and potential Achilles' heels that could be targeted with countermeasures.

Mass media campaigns for public health often rely heavily on digital media and advertising tools that are customarily the domain of marketing professionals and primarily used for commercial purposes. Digital campaigns also generate a myriad of metrics, which can pose both a challenge and opportunity for scientists wishing to leverage these data for research and evaluation. Objective The aim of this article is to provide practical guidance for the evaluation of paid media campaigns, with a focus on analyzing digital data generated directly by the campaign. Methods Building off the Centers for Disease Control framework for program evaluation, we describe a step-by-step process for evaluation tailored to the unique considerations of digital and paid media campaigns. We contextualize our guidance with our experience evaluating a suicide prevention campaign conducted from 2021 to 2023 that focused on firearms safety in U.S. military veterans. Results Key terminology, conceptual models, and selected findings from our evaluation are presented alongside our guidance. Conclusions We conclude with key lessons learned and offer recommendations that are broadly applicable to evaluation of other digital campaigns.

The influence of parent material mineralogy on nutrient release rates in wood production forests remains poorly understood, despite its importance for sustainable forest management. This study investigated how parent material mineralogy impacts soil nutrient abundance and release rates. We studied three forests in Vermont and New Hampshire across a Ca and Mg richness gradient within the soil parent material. We found that both exchangeable and total nutrient concentrations followed the nutrient richness gradient with exchangeable Ca concentrations highest at the rich (758 mg/kg) and lowest at the poor (51.3 mg/kg) sites. Exchangeable Mg concentrations were higher at the rich (41.5 mg/kg) and moderate (42.9 mg/kg) sites relative to the poor (7.04 mg/kg) sites. Total concentrations of Ca were highest at the rich sites (13 mg/g) compared to the moderate (5.73 mg/g) and poor (5.89 mg/g). Total Mg concentrations were higher at the rich (27.3 mg/g) than the moderate (9.47 mg/g) and poor (3.07 mg/g) sites. Using τ values throughout the soil profile compared to the parent material, we found that all three forests were moderate to weakly depleted in Ca, Mg, and K in the upper 30 cm, but P was slightly enriched due to biological uplift. Additionally, we found that calculated field nutrient release rates did not significantly differ among forest nutrient status (p > 0.05), indicating the limited effects from across parent materials. We also conducted a follow up batch reactor experiment at varying pH conditions (4, 5, 6) with organic acids (NaCl, catechol, and citric acid). As expected, pH 4 had the highest Mg release rate (2.19 mg/m2/day) compared to pH 5 (1.27 mg/m2/day), and pH 6 (0.888 mg/m2/day), but surprisingly no effect on Ca release rates, suggesting the more acidic soils of the base cation poor soils results in higher release rates. Our results highlight the dominant contributions of parent material mineralogy has on Ca and Mg release rates, but also that weathering of primary minerals can sustain forest ecosystem productivity.

Introduction. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services mandate that clinicians use a shared decision-making interaction to provide information about the harms and benefits of lung cancer screening (LCS). Methods. We enrolled patients from 3 geographically diverse medical centers after a decision-making interaction about undergoing LCS but before receiving a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan. We performed the primary analysis based on the primary knowledge question, “Which of these conditions do you think that the CT scan screens for?” We used the knowledge summary score in secondary analyses. We evaluated LCS care experience by using validated instruments to measure participant-reported communication quality (Consultation Care Measure), perception of the primary LCS clinician (Consumer Assessment of Health Care Providers and Systems), and decision conflict (Decisional Conflict Scale). Results. Of the 409 participants, 44% correctly answered the primary LCS knowledge question. Clinician communication quality was rated positively by 93% of participants. Most (93%) participants rated their LCS clinician as good. Only 14% reported decision conflict. Correctly answering the primary LCS knowledge question was associated with higher patient-clinician communication quality scores (b = 0.4; 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.1, 0.7]; R 2 change = 0.03) and higher LCS clinician ratings (b = 0.4; 95% CI [0.0, 0.7]; R 2 change = 0.02) but not with decision conflict. In secondary analyses, higher total LCS knowledge score was associated with lower Decisional Conflict Scale scores (b = −2.2; 95% CI [−3.4, −0.9]; R 2 change = 0.24), indicating lower decision conflict. Conclusions. After an LCS decision-making interaction, many patients do not retain basic knowledge about LCS but nevertheless had low levels of decision conflict. Primary LCS knowledge may be important but insufficient to ensure high-quality, patient-centered LCS care. Highlights Survey of patients with a lung cancer screening (LCS) decision-making interaction. Only 44% of patients correctly answered the knowledge question about LCS. Primary LCS knowledge was not associated with decision conflict. Patient knowledge about LCS may not equate to high-quality patient-centered care.

Range disjunctions appear to be common in nature, although they may be caused by various factors. They may simply be an artefact of inadequate sampling. If real, they may be the result of colonization events or habitat change. With natural habitats showing increasing fragmentation because of human activity, understanding the cause of a disjunction can have important conservation implications. We investigate the geographical range of the Plains spadefoot toad, Spea bombifrons, a widely distributed species in the midwestern and southwestern United States, with a putative disjunct population in southern Texas. We combine GIS mapping, species distribution modeling, and population genetic analysis to investigate this putative disjunction. We establish that this southern Texas population is truly geographically disjunct and genetically distinct. Further, using climate projections we show that this unique population is at high risk of local extinction.

Abstract Background Neutrophils are granulocytes with essential antimicrobial effector functions and short lifespans. During infection or sterile inflammation, emergency granulopoiesis leads to release of immature neutrophils from the bone marrow, serving to boost circulating neutrophil counts. Steady state and emergency granulopoiesis are incompletely understood, partly due to a lack of genetically amenable models of neutrophil development. Methods We optimised a method for ex vivo production of human neutrophils from CD34+ haematopoietic progenitors. Using flow cytometry, we phenotypically compared cultured neutrophils with native neutrophils from donors experiencing emergency granulopoiesis, and steady state neutrophils from non-challenged donors. We carry out functional and proteomic characterisation of cultured neutrophils and establish genome editing of progenitors. Results We obtain high yields of ex vivo cultured neutrophils, which phenotypically resemble immature neutrophils released into the circulation during emergency granulopoiesis. Cultured neutrophils have similar rates of ROS production and bacterial killing but altered degranulation, cytokine release and antifungal activity compared to mature neutrophils isolated from peripheral blood. These differences are likely due to incomplete synthesis of granule proteins, as demonstrated by proteomic analysis. Conclusion Ex vivo cultured neutrophils are genetically tractable via genome editing of precursors and provide a powerful model system for investigating the properties and behaviour of immature neutrophils.

Abstract As DNA sequencing technology continues to rapidly improve, studies investigating the microbial communities of host organisms (i.e., microbiota) are becoming not only more popular but also more financially accessible. Across many taxa, microbiomes can have important impacts on organismal health and fitness. To evaluate the microbial community composition of a particular microbiome, microbial DNA must be successfully extracted. Fecal samples are often easy to collect and are a good source of gut microbial DNA. Additionally, interest in the avian preen gland microbiome is rapidly growing, due to the importance of preen oil for many aspects of avian life. Microbial DNA extractions from avian fecal and preen oil samples present multiple challenges, however. Here, we describe a modified PrepMan Ultra Sample Preparation Reagent microbial DNA extraction method that is less expensive than other commonly used methodologies and is highly effective for both fecal and preen oil samples collected from a broad range of avian species. We expect our method will facilitate microbial DNA extractions from multiple avian microbiome reservoirs, which have previously proved difficult and expensive. Our method therefore increases the feasibility of future studies of avian host microbiomes.

The present study evaluated the empirical distinction between the PERMA-Profiler and the Workplace PERMA-Profiler, which measure flourishing using the same items with different contexts (i.e., general vs. workplace orientations). Both scales were administered online via MTurk (N = 601), and single-group measurement and structural invariances were assessed. Partial metric and scalar invariances were supported, indicating that the PERMA constructs were measured equivalently across scales (except for the relationships factor). Structural properties (covariances, means) were not invariant, indicating distinct utility for each scale in their respective contexts. The results suggest that simple adaptations to items to change their context, but not content, may retain the original scale’s psychometric properties and function with discrimination.

Abstract Background Elite-level coaches are exposed to multiple performance, organisational and personal stressors which may contribute to reduced mental health and wellbeing. This systematic scoping review examined the current body of evidence to explore what is known about the mental health of elite-level coaches (i.e. wellbeing and mental ill-health), the risk and protective factors that influence coach mental health, and the relationship between mental health and coaching effectiveness. Methods The review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. A systematic search was undertaken and updated in September 2022 using six electronic databases. Results 12,376 studies were identified and screened, with 42 studies satisfying the inclusion criteria. Despite the paucity of high-quality research, findings indicated that 40% of the included studies examined themes connected to wellbeing, with 76% assessing the nature or prevalence of mental ill-health in elite-level coaches. Among studies exploring mental ill-health, coach burnout was the primary focus, while scant research examined symptoms associated with clinical disorders (e.g. anxiety and depression). Overall, psychological outcomes for elite-level coaches were shaped by risk and protective factors operating at the individual, interpersonal, organisational and societal level. Preliminary evidence was also found to suggest that poor mental health may contribute to reduced coaching effectiveness. It is proposed that coaching effectiveness could therefore be employed as a ‘hook’ to engage elite-level coaches in greater consideration of their mental health needs. Conclusion Alongside the development of methodologically robust research, there is a need to examine dynamic individual (e.g. psychological skills), interpersonal (e.g. strong social supports) and organisational (e.g. workload) factors that aim to preserve the mental health and optimise the efficacy of elite-level coaches.

Abstract X-chromosomal genetic variants are understudied but can yield valuable insights into sexually dimorphic human traits and diseases. We performed a sex-stratified cross-ancestry X-chromosome-wide association meta-analysis of seven kidney-related traits (n = 908,697), identifying 23 loci genome-wide significantly associated with two of the traits: 7 for uric acid and 16 for estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), including four novel eGFR loci containing the functionally plausible prioritized genes ACSL4, CLDN2, TSPAN6 and the female-specific DRP2. Further, we identified five novel sex-interactions, comprising male-specific effects at FAM9B and AR/EDA2R, and three sex-differential findings with larger genetic effect sizes in males at DCAF12L1 and MST4 and larger effect sizes in females at HPRT1. All prioritized genes in loci showing significant sex-interactions were located next to androgen response elements (ARE). Five ARE genes showed sex-differential expressions. This study contributes new insights into sex-dimorphisms of kidney traits along with new prioritized gene targets for further molecular research.

Summary: Flaviviruses such as dengue virus (DENV), Zika virus (ZIKV), and yellow fever virus (YFV) are spread by mosquitoes and cause human disease and mortality in tropical areas. In contrast, Powassan virus (POWV), which causes severe neurologic illness, is a flavivirus transmitted by ticks in temperate regions of the Northern hemisphere. We find serologic neutralizing activity against POWV in individuals living in Mexico and Brazil. Monoclonal antibodies P002 and P003, which were derived from a resident of Mexico (where POWV is not reported), neutralize POWV lineage I by recognizing an epitope on the virus envelope domain III (EDIII) that is shared with a broad range of tick- and mosquito-borne flaviviruses. Our findings raise the possibility that POWV, or a flavivirus closely related to it, infects humans in the tropics.

Globally, there has been a substantial increase in the number of men being diagnosed with anxiety disorders. Despite this, men's mental health research often focusses on uncovering why men don't, rather than why they do, seek help. Within this context, men's help-seeking pathways for anxiety are poorly understood. This study mapped the help-seeking pathways of 419 Australian-based men for anxiety. Respondents 16 to 77 years-old (M = 40.92 years, SD = 15.36) reported multiple instances of help-seeking (n = 321, 77%) elaborating on their drivers for help-seeking via an open-text qualitative survey. Thematic analysis of men's responses was used to generate three themes, first detailing common tipping points of men's anxiety (namely relationship issues and work stress), and second, the reclusive causes and consequences of men's anxiety (burdensome symptoms and unmet expectations). These two themes converged into a third theme of help-seeking where defeatist (i.e., resigned abandonment self-management strategies) or defiant (proactive motivation in reaction to new events) motivations propelled men into either assisted or solitary help-seeking pathways. The current study findings afford important insights about the drivers that lead men to seek help for anxiety across the life course. Interventions targeting men's help-seeking for anxiety should accentuate the potential benefits of community-based mental health treatment within the context of men's social connectedness. Such interventions would also benefit from leveraging positive masculine ideals including strength, emotional-control and competition which can be both a barrier to, and driver for, help-seeking in the context of men's anxiety.

Summary: Numerous viruses alter host microtubule (MT) networks during infection, but how and why they induce these changes is unclear in many cases. We show that the vaccinia virus (VV)-encoded A51R protein is a MT-associated protein (MAP) that directly binds MTs and stabilizes them by both promoting their growth and preventing their depolymerization. Furthermore, we demonstrate that A51R-MT interactions are conserved across A51R proteins from multiple poxvirus genera, and highly conserved, positively charged residues in A51R proteins mediate these interactions. Strikingly, we find that viruses encoding MT interaction-deficient A51R proteins fail to suppress a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent antiviral response in macrophages that leads to a block in virion morphogenesis. Moreover, A51R-MT interactions are required for VV virulence in mice. Collectively, our data show that poxviral MAP-MT interactions overcome a cell-intrinsic antiviral ROS response in macrophages that would otherwise block virus morphogenesis and replication in animals.

Spectral data can potentially offer a rapid assessment of nutrients in leaves and reveal information about the geologic history of the soil. This study evaluated the capability of the partial least squares regression (PLSR) for estimating foliar macro- and micronutrients (Ca, Mg, K, P, Mn, and Zn) using spectral data (400 to 2,450 nm). First, filter-based wavelength selection was conducted to reduce the independent variables. PLSR performance was then assessed across 4 geologic materials (coarse glacial till, glaciofluvial, melt-out till, and outwash) and 4 dominant tree genera (Acer, Betula, Fagus, and Quercus) in the northeastern United States. The spectral ranges 400 to 500 nm and 1,800 to 2,450 nm were found to be the most important spectral regions for estimating foliar nutrient concentrations. The developed PLSR model predicted 6 foliar nutrients with moderate to high accuracy (adjusted R2 from 0.60 to 0.75). Foliar macronutrient concentrations were estimated with higher accuracy (mean adj. R2 = 0.69) than micronutrient concentrations (mean adj. R2 = 0.635). The prediction for the individual tree genera group and the individual geologic materials group outperformed the combined group; for instance, the adj. R2 for estimating Ca and P was 39% higher for American beech (Fagus grandifolia) than all tree genera combined. Spectral measurements combined with wavelength selection and PLSR models can potentially be used to quantify foliar macro- and micronutrients at regional scales, and taking into account geologic materials and tree genera will improve this prediction.

GTP-tubulin is preferentially incorporated at growing microtubule ends, but the biochemical mechanism by which the bound nucleotide regulates the strength of tubulin:tubulin interactions is debated. The ‘self-acting’ (cis) model posits that the nucleotide (GTP or GDP) bound to a particular tubulin dictates how strongly that tubulin interacts, whereas the ‘interface-acting’ (trans) model posits that the nucleotide at the interface of two tubulin dimers is the determinant. We identified a testable difference between these mechanisms using mixed nucleotide simulations of microtubule elongation: with a self-acting nucleotide, plus- and minus-end growth rates decreased in the same proportion to the amount of GDP-tubulin, whereas with interface-acting nucleotide, plus-end growth rates decreased disproportionately. We then experimentally measured plus- and minus-end elongation rates in mixed nucleotides and observed a disproportionate effect of GDP-tubulin on plus-end growth rates. Simulations of microtubule growth were consistent with GDP-tubulin binding at and ‘poisoning’ plus-ends but not at minus-ends. Quantitative agreement between simulations and experiments required nucleotide exchange at terminal plus-end subunits to mitigate the poisoning effect of GDP-tubulin there. Our results indicate that the interfacial nucleotide determines tubulin:tubulin interaction strength, thereby settling a longstanding debate over the effect of nucleotide state on microtubule dynamics.

Patients diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are at an elevated risk for suicide. No prior work has assessed the association between stimulant prescriptions and death by suicide in this population. This retrospective cohort study included Department of Veterans Affairs patients with an active ADHD diagnosis that received stimulant medications between 2016 and 2019. We found that months with active stimulant medication prescription was associated with decreased risk of suicide mortality compared with months without stimulant medication (odds ratio 0.57, 95% CI 0.36–0.88). Our results suggest that prescribing stimulant medications for patients diagnosed with ADHD is associated with decreased risk of suicide mortality.

Summary: Targeted synthetic vaccines have the potential to transform our response to viral outbreaks, yet the design of these vaccines requires a comprehensive knowledge of viral immunogens. Here, we report severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) peptides that are naturally processed and loaded onto human leukocyte antigen-II (HLA-II) complexes in infected cells. We identify over 500 unique viral peptides from canonical proteins as well as from overlapping internal open reading frames. Most HLA-II peptides colocalize with known CD4+ T cell epitopes in coronavirus disease 2019 patients, including 2 reported immunodominant regions in the SARS-CoV-2 membrane protein. Overall, our analyses show that HLA-I and HLA-II pathways target distinct viral proteins, with the structural proteins accounting for most of the HLA-II peptidome and nonstructural and noncanonical proteins accounting for the majority of the HLA-I peptidome. These findings highlight the need for a vaccine design that incorporates multiple viral elements harboring CD4+ and CD8+ T cell epitopes to maximize vaccine effectiveness.

Abstract Addressing global scientific challenges requires the widespread sharing of consistent and trustworthy research data. Identifying the factors that influence widespread data sharing will help us understand the limitations and potential leverage points. We used two well-known theoretical frameworks, the Theory of Planned Behavior and the Technology Acceptance Model, to analyze three DataONE surveys published in 2011, 2015, and 2020. These surveys aimed to identify individual, social, and organizational influences on data-sharing behavior. In this paper, we report on the application of multiple factor analysis (MFA) on this combined, longitudinal, survey data to determine how these attitudes may have changed over time. The first two dimensions of the MFA were named willingness to share and satisfaction with resources based on the contributing questions and answers. Our results indicated that both dimensions are strongly influenced by individual factors such as perceived benefit, risk, and effort. Satisfaction with resources was significantly influenced by social and organizational factors such as the availability of training and data repositories. Researchers that improved in willingness to share are shown to be operating in domains with a high reliance on shared resources, are reliant on funding from national or federal sources, work in sectors where internal practices are mandated, and live in regions with highly effective communication networks. Significantly, satisfaction with resources was inversely correlated with willingness to share across all regions. We posit that this relationship results from researchers learning what resources they actually need only after engaging with the tools and procedures extensively.

Abstract In public opinion, social and digital media provide means for influence as well as sorting according to pre-existing values. Here we consider types of media usage versus opinion using new polling results in the former Soviet republics (FSRs) of Belarus, Ukraine, and Georgia. Over 1000 individuals in each country were asked about a news event (the January 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol) and about the long-term future of their country. We find that year of birth and country of residence, rather than self-reported media reliance, consistently predicted the respondents’ views, particularly on the future of their country. The timing of these differences suggests a cultural difference between generations growing up in the Soviet Union (likely more pro-Russian) versus afterward, in an FSR (more pro-Western). Whereas digital media choice is somewhat correlated with perceptions of a recent, international news event, the more predictive factors are longer-term cultural values and age cohorts within each nation.

BackgroundEngaging men in psychotherapy is essential in male suicide prevention efforts, yet to date, efforts to upskill mental health practitioners in delivering gender-sensitized therapy for men have been lacking. To address this, we developed Men in Mind, an e-learning training program designed to upskill mental health practitioners in engaging men in therapy. ObjectiveThis study involves an in-depth analysis of the user experience of the Men in Mind intervention, assessed as part of a randomized controlled trial of the efficacy of the intervention. MethodsFollowing completion of the intervention, participants provided qualitative (n=392) and quantitative (n=395) user experience feedback, focused on successes and suggested improvements to the intervention and improvements to their confidence in delivering therapy with specific subpopulations of male clients. We also assessed practitioner learning goals (n=242) and explored the extent to which participants had achieved these goals at follow-up. ResultsParticipants valued the inclusion of video demonstrations of skills in action alongside the range of evidence-based content dedicated to improving their insight into the engagement of men in therapy. Suggested improvements most commonly reflected the desire for more or more diverse content, alongside the necessary adaptations to improve the learning and user experience. Participants also commonly reported improved confidence in assisting men with difficulty articulating their emotions in therapy and suicidal men. ConclusionsThe evidence obtained from this study aids in plans to scale Men in Mind and informs the future development of practitioner training interventions in men’s mental health. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)RR2-10.1186/s40359-022-00875-9

Background Genome-wide association studies for glycemic traits have identified hundreds of loci associated with these biomarkers of glucose homeostasis. Despite this success, the challenge remains to link variant associations to genes, and underlying biological pathways. Methods To identify coding variant associations which may pinpoint effector genes at both novel and previously established genome-wide association loci, we performed meta-analyses of exome-array studies for four glycemic traits: glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c, up to 144,060 participants), fasting glucose (FG, up to 129,665 participants), fasting insulin (FI, up to 104,140) and 2hr glucose post-oral glucose challenge (2hGlu, up to 57,878). In addition, we performed network and pathway analyses. Results Single-variant and gene-based association analyses identified coding variant associations at more than 60 genes, which when combined with other datasets may be useful to nominate effector genes. Network and pathway analyses identified pathways related to insulin secretion, zinc transport and fatty acid metabolism. HbA1c associations were strongly enriched in pathways related to blood cell biology. Conclusions Our results provided novel glycemic trait associations and highlighted pathways implicated in glycemic regulation. Exome-array summary statistic results are being made available to the scientific community to enable further discoveries.

Metal–organic frameworks have demonstrated promise for the storage and release of biologically active gases. Here, an in situ single crystal X-ray diffraction study using synchrotron radiation elucidates the binding mechanisms and geometries of nitric oxide and carbon monoxide gases in activated frameworks Ni-CPO-27 and Co-4,6-dihydroxyisophthalate.

Several organic geochemical proxies within a sediment core from Lake Petén Itzá, Guatemala, suggest intense human-induced degradation of the aquatic environment during the Maya Preclassic period from around 700 BCE to 200 CE

Abstract Background Men account for three-quarters of all suicide deaths in many Western nations including Australia. Whilst extensive research has examined risk factors for suicidal ideation and behaviour in men, protective factors remain underexplored, particularly social support, resilience and coping behaviours. Such factors are important to examine particularly in the context of COVID-19, where enforced isolation (among other negative lifestyle effects) has created widespread risk for the development of suicidal ideation. This mixed-methods study aimed to examine associations of various protective factors with suicidal ideation in men, using data from an online survey conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, we aimed to qualitatively investigate men’s self-reported protective strategies when experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviour. Methods A convenience sample of 700 men (age M = 50.3 years; SD = 15.2 years) responded to an online survey including quantitative measures of suicidal ideation, planning and attempt, alongside employment and relationship status, coping, social support, resilience, and a qualitative free-text item gauging men’s self-reported protective strategies. Multinomial logistic regression was applied to compare odds of sub-categories of suicide risk (ideation; planning) according to protective factors. Qualitative responses were analysed via thematic analysis. Results Men in a relationship, and those lower in emotion-focused and avoidant coping reported lower odds of suicidal ideation. Maintaining employment throughout the pandemic was protective against suicidal ideation and planning; as was greater perceived social support from friends. Greater self-reported resilience was protective against suicidal ideation and planning. Qualitative analyses led to the development of two themes: coping and connecting, reflecting men’s intra- and interpersonal management strategies; and sustaining selflessness, where men’s imaginings of the collateral damage of their suicidal behaviour was protective against action on suicidal thoughts or plans. Conclusions Findings of this study speak to the nuanced roles of interpersonal connections, resilience and coping behaviours in protecting against suicidal ideation and planning in men. In addition, qualitative insights further cement men’s identification with familial protector and/or provider roles as protective against suicidal action.

Abstract Spatial omics technologies enable a deeper understanding of cellular organizations and interactions within a tissue of interest. These assays can identify specific compartments or regions in a tissue with differential transcript or protein abundance, delineate their interactions, and complement other methods in defining cellular phenotypes. A variety of spatial methodologies are being developed and commercialized; however, these techniques differ in spatial resolution, multiplexing capability, scale/throughput, and coverage. Here, we review the current and prospective landscape of single cell to subcellular resolution spatial omics technologies and analysis tools to provide a comprehensive picture for both research and clinical applications.

Abstract Herpes simplex virus (HSV) receptor engagement activates phospholipid scramblase triggering Akt translocation to the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane where its subsequent phosphorylation promotes viral entry. We hypothesize that this previously unrecognized outside-inside signaling pathway is employed by other viruses and that cell-impermeable kinase inhibitors could provide novel antivirals. We synthesized a cell-impermeable analog of staurosporine, CIMSS, which inhibited outer membrane HSV-induced Akt phosphorylation and blocked viral entry without inducing apoptosis. CIMSS also blocked the phosphorylation of 3-phosphoinositide dependent protein kinase 1 and phospholipase C gamma, which were both detected at the outer leaflet following HSV exposure. Moreover, vesicular stomatitis virus pseudotyped with SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (VSV-S), but not native VSV or VSV pseudotyped with Ebola virus glycoprotein, triggered this scramblase-Akt outer membrane signaling pathway. VSV-S and native SARS-CoV-2 infection were inhibited by CIMSS. Thus, CIMSS uncovered unique extracellular kinase processes linked to HSV and SARS-CoV-2 entry.

Summary:. Optimal treatment of orthopaedic extremity trauma includes meticulous care of both bony and soft tissue injuries. Historically, clinical scenarios involving soft tissue defects necessitated the assistance of a plastic surgeon. While their expertise in coverage options and microvascular repair is invaluable, barriers preventing collaboration are common. Acellular dermal matrices represent a promising and versatile tool for orthopaedic trauma surgeons to keep in their toolbox. These biological scaffolds are each unique in how they are used and promote healing. This review explores some commercial products and offers guidance for selection in different clinical scenarios involving traumatic wounds.

Photovoice offers creative participatory action methods for conveying community strengths and challenges with the goal of addressing health inequities. Accelerated by COVID-19 restrictions, photovoice has increasingly become virtual, and this shift has given rise to new considerations including navigating online recruitment and data collection, e-participatory action trends and working with multi-site large qualitative data sets. Within these contexts, the current article discusses the case for and against virtual photovoice, drawing from a large study comprising 110 men’s experiences of, and perspectives about, equitable and sustainable intimate partner relationships. The findings are shared across three themes. The first theme, e-Efficiencies and concessions contrasts increased recruitment reach and data collection cost-savings with vulnerabilities to phishing and challenges for working with participants’ wide-ranging internet literacies and practices. Theme two, Participatory action changed , chronicles the participants’ varied relationships to photography including sourcing third-party and archived photographs. Revealed also were privacy concerns whereby some participants opted for audio only interviews and/or restricted the use of their photographs. The third theme, Reckoning breadth and depth in a large dataset , discusses emergent study design considerations including analytics for interpreting and contextually representing large multi-site projects that are made possible through virtual photovoice. While technological advances and COVID-19 have forged photovoice virtually, the case for and against this trend reveals complex considerations that will likely manifest a continuum of approaches ranging virtual, hybrid and in-person models. In summary, we suggest that integral to weighing the case for and against virtual photovoice researchers will need to thoughtfully adapt to changing technologies, as well as potential post COVID-19 tilts for returning to in-person.

Summary: Population-based genome-wide association studies (GWAS) normally require a large sample size, which can be labor intensive and costly. Recently, we reported a human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) array-based GWAS method, identifying NDUFA4 as a host factor for Zika virus (ZIKV) infection. In this study, we extended our analysis to trophectoderm cells, which constitute one of the major routes of mother-to-fetus transmission of ZIKV during pregnancy. We differentiated hiPSCs from various donors into trophectoderm cells. We then infected cells carrying loss of function mutations in NDUFA4, harboring risk versus non-risk alleles of SNPs (rs917172 and rs12386620) or having deletions in the NDUFA4 cis-regulatory region with ZIKV. We found that loss/reduction of NDUFA4 suppressed ZIKV infection in trophectoderm cells. This study validated our published hiPSC array-based system as a useful platform for GWAS and confirmed the role of NDUFA4 as a susceptibility locus for ZIKV in disease-relevant trophectoderm cells.

As interest in animal-assisted therapy (AAT) and canine-assisted psychotherapy (CAP) grows, there are increasing calls for the management of related health, safety, and welfare concerns for canines, providers, and clients. Existing health and safety guidelines lack empirical support and are, at times, contradictory. Welfare is increasingly prioritized; however, tools to monitor and manage welfare are underutilized and under-reported. The aim of this study was to provide expert consensus on the minimum health, safety, and welfare standards required to develop and deliver a CAP group program to adolescents experiencing common mental health disorders. Diverse AAT experts were recruited globally. Using Delphi methodology, over two rounds, 40 panelists reached a consensus agreement to include 32 items from a possible 49 into the minimum standards. Health and safety measures included risk assessment, veterinary screening, preventative medicine, training in infection control, and first aid. Welfare measures included training in welfare assessment, documentation of welfare, and flexible, individualized responses to promote wellbeing. Intestinal screening for parasites and the prohibition of raw food were not supported. Flexible and individualized assessment and management of canine welfare were supported over fixed and time-limited work schedules. Clinical practice implications are discussed, and recommendations are made.

The QT interval is a heritable electrocardiographic measure associated with arrhythmia risk when prolonged. Here, the authors used a series of genetic analyses to identify genetic loci, pathways, therapeutic targets, and relationships with cardiovascular disease.

Abstract Francisella tularensis, the causative agent of tularemia, is classified as Tier 1 Select Agent with bioterrorism potential. The efficacy of the only available vaccine, LVS, is uncertain and it is not licensed in the U.S. Previously, by using an approach generally applicable to intracellular pathogens, we identified working correlates that predict successful vaccination in rodents. Here, we applied these correlates to evaluate a panel of SchuS4-derived live attenuated vaccines, namely SchuS4-ΔclpB, ΔclpB-ΔfupA, ΔclpB-ΔcapB, and ΔclpB-ΔwbtC. We combined in vitro co-cultures to quantify rodent T-cell functions and multivariate regression analyses to predict relative vaccine strength. The predictions were tested by rat vaccination and challenge studies, which demonstrated a clear relationship between the hierarchy of in vitro measurements and in vivo vaccine protection. Thus, these studies demonstrated the potential power a panel of correlates to screen and predict the efficacy of Francisella vaccine candidates, and in vivo studies in Fischer 344 rats confirmed that SchuS4-ΔclpB and ΔclpB-ΔcapB may be better vaccine candidates than LVS.

Work in a mouse model of Friedreich’s ataxia has shown that administration of the cytokine granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) could have beneficial neuroprotective effects. Here the authors perform a pilot study of Lenograstim (recombinant G-CSF) in patients with Friedreich’s ataxia.

Accurate classification of genetic variants is critical for research and patient care. Here, the authors report that population-based associations between rare variants and quantitative endophenotypes for monogenic diseases can provide support for variant pathogenicity.

BackgroundTreatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in men is complicated by the endorsement of traditional masculinity ideologies (TMI) often leading to reluctance toward psychotherapy, therapy interfering processes, or premature termination. In addition, it has been shown that men with MDD have a significantly increased risk of being hypogonadal (e.g., total testosterone levels

A large-scale GWAS provides insight on diabetes-dependent genetic effects on the glomerular filtration rate, a common metric to monitor kidney health in disease.

Understanding regulation of genes associated to disease can reveal insights into disease mechanisms. Here, the authors perform an airway epithelial transcriptome-wide association analysis to elucidate genetic determinants of airway dysfunction in asthma, identifying genetic mechanisms of mucus pathobiology.

Smallpox is a highly contagious respiratory pathogen associated with a high mortality rate. Here the authors utilize a mouse model of intranasal vaccinia virus infection and show a C7 gene encoded virulence factor attenuates type I IFN release by lung type II alveolar epithelial cells and reduces lung inflammatory monocyte responses.

Abstract Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) models hold potential to advance knowledge in HCC biology to help improve systemic therapies. Beside hepatitis B virus‐associated tumors, HCC is poorly established in PDX. Methods PDX formation from fresh HCC biopsies were obtained and implanted intrahepatically or in subrenal capsule (SRC). Mouse liver injury was induced in immunodeficient Fah−/− mice through cycling off nitisinone after HCC biopsy implantation, versus continuous nitisinone as non‐liver injury controls. Mice with macroscopically detectable PDX showed rising human alpha1‐antitrypsin (hAAT) serum levels, and conversely, no PDX was observed in mice with undetectable hAAT. Results Using rising hAAT as a marker for PDX formation, 20 PDX were established out of 45 HCC biopsy specimens (44%) reflecting the four major HCC etiologies most commonly identified at Memorial SloanKettering similar to many other institutions in the United States. PDX was established only in severely immunodeficient mice lacking lymphocytes and NK cells. Implantation under the renal capsule improved PDX formation two‐fold compared to intrahepatic implantation. Two out of 18 biopsies required murine liver injury to establish PDX, one associated with hepatitis C virus and one with alcoholic liver disease. PDX tumors were histologically comparable to biopsy specimens and 75% of PDX lines could be passaged. Conclusions Using cycling off nitisinone‐induced liver injury, HCC biopsies implanted under the renal capsule of severely immunodeficient mice formed PDX with 57% efficiency as determined by rising hAAT levels. These findings facilitate a more efficient make‐up of PDX for research into subset‐specific HCC.

Abstract Background While large genome-wide association studies have identified nearly one thousand loci associated with variation in blood pressure, rare variant identification is still a challenge. In family-based cohorts, genome-wide linkage scans have been successful in identifying rare genetic variants for blood pressure. This study aims to identify low frequency and rare genetic variants within previously reported linkage regions on chromosomes 1 and 19 in African American families from the Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine (TOPMed) program. Genetic association analyses weighted by linkage evidence were completed with whole genome sequencing data within and across TOPMed ancestral groups consisting of 60,388 individuals of European, African, East Asian, Hispanic, and Samoan ancestries. Results Associations of low frequency and rare variants in RCN3 and multiple other genes were observed for blood pressure traits in TOPMed samples. The association of low frequency and rare coding variants in RCN3 was further replicated in UK Biobank samples (N = 403,522), and reached genome-wide significance for diastolic blood pressure (p = 2.01 × 10− 7). Conclusions Low frequency and rare variants in RCN3 contributes blood pressure variation. This study demonstrates that focusing association analyses in linkage regions greatly reduces multiple-testing burden and improves power to identify novel rare variants associated with blood pressure traits.

Men’s intimate partner relationship services have focused on correcting the behaviors of male perpetrators of intimate partner (IPV) and/or domestic violence (DV). There is a need to advance IPV and DV prevention efforts by better equipping men with relationship skills. This study explores service providers’ and stakeholders’ perspectives about the challenges and strategies for assisting men to build better intimate partner relationships. Interviews were conducted with participants ( n = 30) from Canada and Australia who worked in the men’s intimate partner relationships sector. Three themes were inductively derived: (a) crisis management (barriers to engagement), (b) owning deficits and leveraging strengths (engaging though accountability and action), and (c) me then we (self-work as requisite for relationship success). Using a gender relations lens, we examined the influence of masculinities on men’s intimate partner relationships and engagement with services. Participants described crisis management challenges for men accessing services including shame, threats to masculine identity, and mental health challenges. Owning deficits and leveraging strengths hinged on men’s accountability and action, rather than assigning blame for problematic behaviors in accessing services. Related to this, the me then we theme highlighted men’s strength-based approaches in focussing on self-work to develop tangible skills and awareness needed to build healthy relationships. Overall, the findings indicate men’s healthy relationships hinged on working with masculine identities to inform their perspectives and behaviors. Men’s intimate partner relationship work likely requires labor at multiple levels (e.g., individual, partners, and systems) to secure the strong potential for reframing masculine identities as asset-building for men’s relationships.

AimsTo develop a comprehensive understanding of caregiver burden and its predictors from a dyadic perspective.MethodA convergent mixed methods design was used. This study was conducted in three European countries, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands. A sample of 229 HF patients and caregivers was enrolled between February 2017 and December 2018 from the internal medicine ward, outpatient clinic, and private cardiologist medical office. In total, 184 dyads completed validated scales to measure burden, and 50 caregivers participated in semi-structured interviews to better understand the caregiver experience. The Care Dependency Scale, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and SF-8 Health Survey were used for data collection. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to identify the predictors and qualitative content analysis was performed on qualitative data. The results were merged using joint displays.ResultsCaregiver burden was predicted by the patient's worse cognitive impairment, lower physical quality of life, and a higher care dependency perceived by the caregivers. The qualitative and mixed analysis demonstrated that caregiver burden has a physical, emotional, and social nature.ConclusionsCaregiver burden can affect the capability of informal caregivers to support and care for their relatives with heart failure. Developing and evaluating individual and community-based strategies to address caregiver burden and enhance their quality of life are warranted.

Background: Although studies have reported a significant inverse association between meaning in life and psychological distress, little is known about this association, specifically among men, or its potential underlying mechanisms. Accordingly, this study investigated prospective pathways connecting meaning in life to men's psychological distress through the serial mediation effects of resilience and loneliness. Methods: In total, 364 male respondents provided demographic data and completed an online survey to assess meaning in life, resilience, loneliness, and psychological distress. Simple and serial mediation models were tested to examine whether resilience and loneliness mediated the association between meaning in life and men's psychological distress, both separately and jointly. Results: Direct and indirect effects of meaning in life on men's psychological distress were found. As predicted, both resilience and loneliness independently mediated the association between meaning in life and men's psychological distress. In addition, serial mediation analysis indicated that resilience and loneliness mediated the association between meaning in life and men's psychological distress via a sequential process. Conclusions: The findings advance knowledge concerning the influence of meaning in life on men's psychological distress and two critical underlying mechanisms in this relationship. Clinical interventions for men that enhance meaning in life may help bolster resilience and reduce loneliness, diminishing psychological distress.